Bright Ideas For Sunny Days

by CARSON GRIFFITH · May 28, 2009

    [Picture from Dargate] If we had to pick a winner for best summer accessory, we'd have to give it to sunglasses (worst: tan lines). So whether you're looking for shades for a fancy luncheon, the polo or a pair you can just toss in your beach bag, we've got you, and your eyes, covered. Take some tips and share your own because everyone knows that a pair of sunglasses are an essential that do more than just block the sun - they're a summertime staple. Here are some ray-blockers that caught our eye:

    The name says it all. These are the perfect pair to throw around, toss around and knock around without worrying about what happens to them, because for $12, they won't take a big hit on your bank account. However, with a wayfarer shape and the "Knockaround" logo on the side, you won't want anything to happen to these. But with scratch resistant lenses, you may not have to worry.

    If you're a fan of Ray Ban's classic aviators but want to venture out and try something new, we'd suggest Carrera's Gipsy aviator sunglasses for about the same price ($140). This white metal-framed pair does a twist on the usual shape with blue lenses. A huge fan of Carrera, we would suggest checking out there other styles as well on Net-a-porter.

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    For extra sun projection, these visored sunglasses from Topshop are like a hat and sunglasses all in one! Not to mention a great conversation starter, and don't even get us started on how many theme party outfits we can add these to. And for $30, we're sold.

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    Big enough to shield almost your entire face from the sun - almost. Michael Kors really knows how to make a pair of sunglasses. With square frames and gold detailing, these $235 bamboo sunglasses have Hollywood-glam written all over them. We have a feeling there are probably other great styles we'd love to get our hands on at the Michael Kors store at 48 Main Street in East Hampton also.

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    Designed by two California kids, these unique sunglasses by Crap eyewear are creating a sensation on the West Coast. Their very unique name (and logo, which is on the side of each pair of glasses) is making them as funny as they are colorful. Each pair is hand-painted, making it one of a kind. For $50, be one of the first people rocking these on the East end this summer.

    The green trend is bigger than ever, so if you're doing everything possible to live a sustainable lifestyle we have an option for you: iWood has a sunglass collection that is not only Mother Earth friendly, but is something worthy of shelling out $350 for. Made of "exotic" woods, the materials were harvested using eco-friendly processes as well.

    If you spend your weekends fist-pumping at the Drift Inn (i.e. Neptune's by day), make sure to by a pair of these plastic sunnies in neon yellow from Target. They're the perfect addition to the mix of party and 80's music they play on repeat, and for $12.99 if they fall in the Drift juice, you want be too upset.

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    Perfect for a polo, these large framed sunglasses have the horsebit hinges Gucci has made famous. The crystal detailing is just an added bonus. Want to keep it simple? You can pick up a pair of their original version, sans crystal hinges, at their East Hampton store at 46 Main Street. ($495)

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    Here's a shout out to G of G editor, Rachelle - she wanted some cheap red sunnies, so here you go lady. Another fave of ours besides the "Carrie" (pictured left) that would look great in the fire engine red color? The "Risky Business" style, also from Fred Flare, and also only $11.

    You can splurge or you can save, but you can't be caught out in the sun without a pair of shades this summer. Let us know what you'll be sporting this season!